Portugal: 9 things to do in Faro and its region

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📌 Read in : Français (French)

Faro, the small gem of the Algarve, is a jewel often overlooked by travellers in a hurry to reach the white sandy beaches and luxurious resorts further west. They don’t know what they’re missing. Faro, with its cobblestone streets, untouched beaches, and historical treasures, has a lot to offer. If you’re looking for an authentic and charming destination in the south of Portugal, look no further. It’s here, in this unique blend of history, culture, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, that you can discover another side of the Algarve, away from the beaten path. And to help you pack your bags, we’ve listed the must-do things in Faro, a city that, once visited, leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of travellers.

💸 Being generous? If, at the end of a meal or a taxi ride in Portugal, you don’t know if you should leave a tip, here is our little guide.

🗒️ Travel time, hotels: things to know before going to Faro

Before we start our list of must-do things in Faro, here are some tips for your next getaway.

When is the best time to visit Faro?

If you want to maximize your chances of enjoying the sun and swimming, summer (June to August) is the best time. Temperatures during these months can reach 30°C, with pleasantly cooler nighttime temperatures. This is also when the city is liveliest, with numerous festivals and activities. However, this also means more people on the beaches and in the tourist attractions.

The spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months are a good compromise for those who prefer a slightly cooler climate but still warm enough for the beach. And it is even possible to swim there, for the less chilly…

Winter in Faro (November to March) is mild compared to most European standards, with daytime temperatures oscillating around 15-18°C. This is an ideal time for those who want to explore the region without the summer heat, although there is a higher risk of rain

How to get to the center of Faro from the airport?

Faro International Airport is conveniently located just 7 km west of the city center. To reach the historic part, you can take bus line 16 which runs approximately every half hour between 5:20 am and midnight, and the journey takes about 20 minutes. If you prefer a more private mode of transportation, taxis are available outside the terminal and the journey to Faro city center usually costs between 10 and 15 euros. And if you want to go directly to Tavira (read below), here is what to do.

Which hotel to choose in Faro?

As a popular destination, there is no shortage of quality accommodations in Faro.

Nestled in the heart of the charming old town of Faro, the Faro & Beach Club Hotel is a favoured destination for many travellers. Combining contemporary comfort with authentic Portuguese ambiance, this establishment offers a breathtaking view of the marina and the Ria Formosa Natural Park from its rooftop, which houses a bar-restaurant, perfect for watching sunsets.

Just a short walk from the port, the Stay Hotel Faro Centro is another popular option among travellers. This hotel offers modern and comfortable rooms and stands out for its commitment to providing exceptional service. Its location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the historic centre, with its charming cobbled streets, quaint cafes, and unique boutiques.

For a more luxurious stay experience, the Pousada Palacio Estoi, located a few kilometers north of Faro, offers a royal escape in a real 18th-century palace. This historic residence, transformed into a hotel, offers a unique stay experience with its dazzling architecture, sumptuous gardens, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the mountains of the Algarve. Each room is decorated with classic elegance, offering the charm of a stay in the past with all the modern comfort. The palace also houses a high-end restaurant offering traditional Portuguese dishes, creatively reimagined.

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🔝 What are the things to do in Faro?

Let’s delve into the heart of our topic. You’ll see that the beaches of the region are not the only must-see attractions in Faro.

Visit the Carmelite Church (and the Chapel of Bones)

The Igreja Nossa Senhora do Carmo, a landmark in Faro, is a must-see in the city. This splendidly decorated baroque church, dating from the 18th century, is known for its dazzling white exterior and glittering gold interior, adorned with woodwork and azulejos ceramic tiles. But it’s the adjacent chapel, the Capela dos Ossos, that particularly attracts visitors. Entirely covered with the bones of over 1,000 monks, this chapel offers an unforgettable meditation on mortality and the ephemeral nature of life. This chapel is also on our list of the scariest places in Europe!

Explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park

The Ria Formosa Natural Park is a must-see natural wonder during your visit to Faro. Located along the coast, it spans over 60 kilometers and consists of lagoons, marshes, and sand islands. This ecological sanctuary is home to exceptional biodiversity, with a wide variety of birds, fish, and other marine species. Bird lovers are always delighted to observe flamingos, egrets, ducks, and many other migratory birds.

Discover Faro Cathedral

Perched majestically on the old town square, Faro Cathedral is a 13th-century architectural wonder that fuses several eras. The austere and powerful facade is a harmonious mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance styles that testify to the region’s rich history. The main portal, adorned with meticulously carved sculptures, is an invitation to enter this millennia-old sanctuary.

Once inside, one is struck by the beauty of the Gothic vaults, the side chapels lined with golden woodwork, and the main altar, a dazzling Baroque masterpiece. Behind, you’ll discover an imposing 18th-century organ, a real little gem. But what is truly impressive is the bell tower. After climbing a narrow spiral staircase, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Faro and its surroundings.

📚 History Point: The construction of Faro Cathedral, or Sé de Faro, began in 1251, after King Alfonso III reclaimed Faro from the Moors. However, it underwent many changes and renovations over the following centuries, especially after the earthquake of 1755, which devastated a large part of the region.

Stroll through the old town

Walking through Faro’s old town is like travelling back in time. Surrounded by medieval ramparts, this part of the city is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and quaint public spaces. Two previously mentioned attractions, the Carmo Church and the cathedral, can be found here. But not only that. The Palácio Belmarço, once a noble residence, is another point of interest, as is the municipal archaeological museum. As you pass through the Arco da Vila, a neoclassical 19th-century gate that serves as the main entrance to the old town, you immediately immerse yourself in a unique atmosphere.

At nightfall, rediscover this district, with its many bars and clubs where you can listen to Fado, traditional Portuguese music, while sipping a glass of local wine. Here are two well-known addresses:

• Taberna Albricoque | A traditional tavern where you can listen to live Fado while enjoying excellent Portuguese cuisine | Rua do Alportel 18,
• Faro O Castelo | Located in the old town, next to the castle ramparts, O Castelo not only offers live Fado music on certain evenings but also a breathtaking view of the Ria Formosa | Rua do Repouso 10, Faro

Have fun at Lethes Theatre

The Lethes Theatre is a cultural treasure. Erected in 1605, this opulent building is one of the oldest theaters in Portugal and is nestled in a setting of cobbled streets and charming Portuguese houses. The show hall itself is a sight to behold. It can accommodate around 300 people, with opulent red seats and richly carved wooden balconies that evoke the atmosphere of 19th-century theatres.

The stage, framed by red velvet curtains, has hosted countless performances over the years, ranging from classic and contemporary plays to music concerts, ballets, and even operas. Guided tours, to learn more about its history, are entirely possible. Have a look at the official website.

Indulge at Forum Algarve

The Forum Algarve is a dynamic and modern hub that strongly contrasts with Faro’s historic architecture. It is the largest shopping center in the region, offering a wide range of shops (a hundred), restaurants, and leisure activities. The center is built around an open space, simulating the typical alleys of a Portuguese village, with a fountain in its center.

However, what really distinguishes the Forum Algarve is its commitment to art and culture. The centre regularly hosts art exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events, making it more than just a shopping centre (list of events here).

Relax on Faro Beach

Located on a narrow strip of land between the Atlantic Ocean and the Ria Formosa lagoon, this beach is a gem of the Algarve, accessible via the Faro airport road. The back of the beach is home to a number of seaside restaurants and bars, where you can sample a variety of local dishes.

For activities, there’s plenty to keep you entertained: action enthusiasts can try their hand at surfing or other water sports. And you won’t lack space: One of the characteristics of Faro beach is its stretch of sand, which extends for more than 5 kilometers.

Admire the Estói Palace

The Estói Palace, or Pousada Palácio Estói, is a neoclassical masterpiece nestled in the charming village of Estói, just ten kilometers north of Faro. Originally built in the 19th century as a sumptuous residence for a local noble, the palace has since been transformed into a luxury hotel, but remains open to visitors who wish to explore its historic architecture and picturesque gardens.

The façade of the building is a dazzling declaration of grandeur, with design elements inspired by rococo, baroque, and neoclassical styles. Upon entering, you are greeted by high ceilings, marble staircases, and hand-painted frescoes adorning the walls and ceilings. However, the true gems of the Estói Palace are its gardens. You’ll love to stroll around!

Visit the other gems of the Algarve

Faro is far from the only pearl of the Algarve. Other destinations in the region attract tourists from around the world. Here are four of them, located not far from Faro. Perfect towns for a day trip:

• A detour to Loulé: about 16 km north of Faro, Loulé is famous for its lively market, housed in a Moorish-style building. The narrow streets of the old town are filled with craft shops and cafes, and Loulé Castle, though modest, offers a nice view of the surroundings.
• A hop to Olhão: located east of Faro, Olhão is a fishing town with an incredibly fresh seafood market, a picturesque waterfront, and labyrinthine alleys in the old quarter, or “Barrio”. From here, you can take a ferry to the islands of the Ria Formosa archipelago, including Armona, Culatra, and Farol.
• A swing by Tavira: east of Faro, Tavira is often described as one of the most picturesque towns in the Algarve. It has preserved its traditional charm, with its cobbled streets, white houses with red tile roofs, Roman bridges, and 18th-century churches. Don’t miss the Tavira Castle for a panoramic view of the town.
• A trip to Silves: This historic city was once the capital of the Algarve under Moorish rule. You can visit the impressive castle, one of the best-preserved in the region, and the nearby Gothic cathedral. Silves is also known for its annual medieval festival.

There you have it, we hope this small list of things to do in Faro has helped you plan your trip. Any other ideas? See you in the comments.